Sacrament at the Service of Communion
“For this reason a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh. So they are no longer two, but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, let no one separate.”
Mark 10:7–9
What is the Sacrament of Matrimony?
The Sacrament of Matrimony establishes between a baptised man and a baptised woman a partnership of the whole of life which, by its nature, is ordered towards the good of the spouses and the procreation and education of children. Christ the Lord raised marriage between the baptised to the dignity of a sacrament.
In Christian marriage, the spouses are the ministers of the sacrament to one another. By exchanging their wedding vows before God and the Church, they consent to give themselves to each other irrevocably, creating a bond that is both faithful and fruitful. The grace of this sacrament perfects the couple’s human love, strengthens their indissoluble unity, and sanctifies them on the way to eternal life.
The Essential Properties of Marriage
Catholic marriage is marked by two essential properties: unity and indissolubility. Unity means that marriage is between one man and one woman. Indissolubility means that what God has joined together, no human authority can dissolve. A valid, consummated sacramental marriage cannot be broken by any power. These properties, far from being a burden, are a source of strength and security for the couple and their family.
Preparing for Marriage
Couples wishing to marry in the Catholic Church should contact the parish well in advance — ideally at least six months before the intended date — so that proper preparation can take place. Marriage preparation includes meetings with the parish priest, a marriage preparation course, and the gathering of the necessary documents.
If one party is not Catholic, or if there are other particular circumstances (such as a previous marriage), the parish priest can advise on the steps required and assist with any necessary permissions from the diocese.
Request to Marry
If you are planning to marry and would like to celebrate the Sacrament of Matrimony in our parish, please complete the form below. We look forward to accompanying you on this joyful journey.